WE should do it at least a couple of times a year – change the batteries in the smoke alarm that is.
The Country Fire Authority recommends upgrading your old alarm to one of the newer units with a lithium battery that offer a ten-year lifespan.
New smoke alarms ensure families can feel the highest level of security. Working smoke alarms are your best defence against preventable residential fires, especially during the night, when people lose their sense of smell. These new alarms provide the security of knowing you and your family are protected, while also ensuring you’re not interrupted every year with a nagging smoke alarm.
When you‘re asleep you lose your sense of smell. A smoke alarm is your electronic nose. It will alert you if there is smoke from a fire. A small fire can grow to involve an entire room in just two to three minutes. A smoke alarm provides early warning and time to escape.
Since 1 August 1997, Victorian law states that smoke alarms (complying with Australian Standards AS3786) must be installed in all homes, units, flats and townhouses. It is the responsibility of all owners and landlords to install working smoke alarms.
Homes constructed before 1 August 1997 need only standalone, battery powered smoke alarms. Homes constructed after 1 August 1997 must have smoke alarms connected to 240-volt mains power. These smoke alarms must also have a backup battery installed in the smoke alarm in case there is a loss of power.
A specialised smoke alarm is available for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Due to the cost of this type of smoke alarm, the Department of Human Services may be able to provide financial assistance via a subsidy.
